Most of us shy away from big, risky changes, but Forbes writer Susannah Breslin points out that it's those radical life-altering events that force us to grow and mature the most. Embracing them, she says, will ultimately make you a better person.

Tackling major life changes, like a new job, new relationship, or illness head-on forces you to grow and can change the way you see the world. She points to her own experience moving across country and minimizing her life as examples of ways she forced herself out of her comfort zone with positive results. How do you feel about significant life changes? Do you dip your toes in first or just go for it? Share your thoughts in the comments. Photo by David Daniels.